Sunscreen

Recent Sunscreen Reviews

Badger Sport Broad Spectrum SPF 35 Sunscreen

I have been using Badger sunscreen this summer as an alternative to more chemically-based sun protection. It definitely does the job of keeping you from getting burned, and it doesn't have nanoparticles or potentially carcinogenic chemical agents. It also doesn't easy wash, rub, or sweat off. On the downside, it is very thick and not so easy to apply, and it can make you look like a ghost. Also, removal requires some scrubbing. My go-to sunscreen, which works extremely well, apparently isn't so… Full review

Sawyer Stay-Put Sunscreen SPF 30

This is the one to use. Period. Even if it requires some effort to find it. Full review

Sawyer Stay-Put Sunscreen SPF 30

When you think of Sawyer, you probably are thinking “water filters.” My first thought when I saw Sawyer was selling a sunscreen was, “It can’t be very good. Companies should stick to what they know.” However, after a summer of use, I strongly assert Sawyer’s “Stay Put” SPF 30 Sunscreen is the best sun protection product I have ever used. When Trailspace honored me as the Reviewer of the Month in May 2016, they sent me a prize package made up of the “10 Essentials.” Included in… Full review

Dermatone SPF 36 Zinc Oxide Lotion

My favorite sunscreen for bright sun or high altitude. Dermatone sunscreen products have been my favorites for many years (decades). I have used different formulations and currently prefer zinc oxide content for better screening.  Stays on well, blocks well, seems to work well on my skin and isn't loaded up with fragrances. Small sizes are nice and light for shorter hikes, but larger sizes are available for long trips. Full review

Rocky Mountain Sunscreen Broad Spectrum SPF 70

Sun protection that keeps you from getting fried and that truly does not wash or sweat off. Broad spectrum, doesn't irritate skin (hypoallergenic). It isn't greasy or sticky and has no odor. Wish it were more readily available. UPDATE July 2018: I still regularly use Rocky Mountain Sunscreen. They no longer sell SPF 70; we get a quart pump bottle of SPF 50, and that lasts about two years for our family. Active ingredients are avobenzone, homosalate, and octocrylene. [note that oxybenzone are no… Full review

Aloe Gator SPF 40 Lotion

Of the many sunscreens I have used I think this one is the best. A little bit goes a long way, it is not greasy when you put it on, and it doesn't smell like a coconut. I work outside most of the day and noticed it lasts about 4 hours with normal use and 3 hours with heavy sweating. The sun blocking agent also works well under extreme use as I found out on many of my desert hikes. Full review